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Bikemagic Trail Guide: Whinlatter Forest, near Keswick, Cumbria

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Destination: Whinlatter Forest, near Keswick, Cumbria

With lots of other attractions on-site, the car park at Whinlatter can be depressingly full when you arrive. Don’t worry though, most won’t be riding and there’s plenty of room on the trails. Clixbys Trailbuilders have done a great job of building trails for a range of abilities that make the most of the Lakeland setting.

How to get there

From Keswick, take the A66 west towards Cockermouth. At Braithwaite turn west onto the B5292 for Lorton. Follow the sign posts for the visitor centre.

Sat Nav: CA12 5TW

Facilities

On-site bike shop and a visitor centre with cafe and toilets.

Trails

The 7km blue-graded Quercus trail is a really good way to kick off your day at Whinlatter; it’s far from a dull pootle and a great way to get warmed up and dialed in. With some great twisting singletrack, raised boards through the trees and even a couple of rollable jumps, I promise it’ll put a grin on your face.

The red-graded Altura trail is 19km long

Moving onto the red Altura trail, it’s a 19km figure of eight divided into a North and South loop. With the North loop marginally longer at 10km and more technically challenging, I’d suggest riding the South loop first. It’s good fun and even the climbing has enough interest to detract you from the pedalling.

The North loop takes you all the way up to the top of Seat How. You’re then in the woods and, especially in the wet, there are some tricky roots and rocks. The big reward for all your climbing is the final big, bermed and jumpy descent. Stay off your brakes and enjoy.

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